United Way campaign kickoff

Kim Ferguson competes in a water contest during the step-up prize announcements at the campaign kickoff.

Kathy Sweeney welcomes people to the annual campaign kickoff for the United Way of Southeast Missouri.

United Way board president Stan Penn speaks at the campaign kickoff.

United Way executive director Nancy Jernigan speaks at the campaign kickoff.

The United Way of Southeast Missouri campaign kickoff was held at West Park 14 Cine.

Darrick Johnson, 2012 United Way campaign chairman, speaks at the kickoff luncheon.

Jeanne Churchill tries to beat Kim Ferguson's time in a water contest.

Kim Voelker, left, and Darrick Johnson unveil the 2012 campaign goal for the United Way of Southeast Missouri Thursday, Aug. 30, 2012 at Cape West 14 Cine.

Jo Peukert gathers the table decorations after the campaign kickoff luncheon.

Heather Brooks, left, and Gayle Conrad pose at the United Way of Southeast Missouri campaign kickoff Aug. 30 at West Park 14 Cine.

Katie Ammon, left, Erica Wheeler and Dana Hukel pose at the United Way of Southeast Missouri campaign kickoff Aug. 30 at West Park 14 Cine.

Debbie Moser, left, Tom Davisson and Kim Voelker pose at the United Way of Southeast Missouri campaign kickoff Aug. 30 at West Park 14 Cine.

Shelly Kaiser, left, and Heather Short pose at the United Way of Southeast Missouri campaign kickoff Aug. 30 at West Park 14 Cine.

Maj. Ben Stillwell, left, and Ray Lamb pose at the United Way of Southeast Missouri campaign kickoff Aug. 30 at West Park 14 Cine.

Tyler Lipe, left, and Vickie House pose at the United Way of Southeast Missouri campaign kickoff Aug. 30 at West Park 14 Cine.

Kay Azuma, left, and Jeanne Churchill pose at the United Way of Southeast Missouri campaign kickoff Aug. 30 at West Park 14 Cine.